The '''epigonation''' (from Greek, "upon the knee") is a stiff, diamond-shaped vestment worn on the right side by [[priest]]s and [[bishop]]s.

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The '''epigonation''' (Greek: ἐπιγονάτιον, literally meaning "over the knee"), or '''palitza''' (Russian: палица, "club"), is a diamond-shaped vestment worn on the right side by [[priest]]s and [[bishop]]s.

In the Byzantine tradition, the epigonation is awarded to a priest upon his elevation to ''exomologos'' (confessor) or the rank of οικονόμος. In the Russian tradition, it is an award given after many years of service.

In the Byzantine tradition, the epigonation is awarded to a priest upon his elevation to ''exomologos'' (confessor) or the rank of οικονόμος. In the Russian tradition, it is an award given after many years of service.

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It represents a shield, originating from the thigh shield worn by soldiers during the days of the early church. The epigonation holds a dual meaning. First, it denotes the celebrant as a "soldier" of Christ. Second, it symbolizes the Word of God, fighting the wiles of the enemy. The epigonation is known as the ''palitsa'' in the Russian tradition.

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It represents a shield, originating from the thigh shield worn by soldiers during the days of the early church. The epigonation holds a dual meaning. First, it denotes the celebrant as a "soldier" of Christ. Second, it symbolizes the Word of God, fighting the wiles of the enemy.

Revision as of 04:48, March 23, 2012

The epigonation (Greek: ἐπιγονάτιον, literally meaning "over the knee"), or palitza (Russian: палица, "club"), is a diamond-shaped vestment worn on the right side by priests and bishops.

In the Byzantine tradition, the epigonation is awarded to a priest upon his elevation to exomologos (confessor) or the rank of οικονόμος. In the Russian tradition, it is an award given after many years of service.

It represents a shield, originating from the thigh shield worn by soldiers during the days of the early church. The epigonation holds a dual meaning. First, it denotes the celebrant as a "soldier" of Christ. Second, it symbolizes the Word of God, fighting the wiles of the enemy.

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